I use a janome machine, bottom of the range, which, at 99 pounds (double it for dolars), was the cheapest new one that wasn't obviously crap. All good so far, although I wish the reverse lever would lock in place so I could have both hands free when sewing backwards...

I'm sure the experts on the board will be able to share more detailed desiderata with you...

second hand can be cheaper if you're patient enough, and take along someone who knows what to look for

You can pick up a decent entry level Singer at many Walmarts and similar for around $100. Another cheap way is to visit Sewing machine shops (the kind that sell good machines, and vacumns...not fabric shops!) and see if they have any refurbished trade ins!

All you really need is a machine that goes forward and back for gear with maybe a zig zag stitch thrown in.

I love my Bernina but your not going to find a good used one for what a k-mart singer will cost.

I would buy a chep unit and upgrade if your get into it. I really like a adjustable presser foot if you can find one with it. It helps when dealing with thin fabrics and if you start to deal with insulation.

I bought a Brother for $80 from Walmart and it has served me well. I doesn't do too many "fancy" stitches but I don't either. As long as I remember to put the foot down before sewing (whoops), it performs without a hitch.

The only thing I have noticed that bothers me for making outdoor gear is that it doesn't seem to like multiple layers of really thick fabric. This hasn't been a real problem for me yet but it does have the advantage of making me stay with my lightweight objectives!